The Theory of Proxemics

Proxemics is a theory of non-verbal communication that
explains how people communicate without words through personal speaking
distance, speech volume, eye contact, touching, body position, and the context
in which the communication occurs. Different individuals, especially those from
different cultural backgrounds, have different comfort levels with these
non-verbal elements of communication and may have different non-verbal
communication standards.

For this discussion, identify three volunteers, if
possible, from different demographic backgrounds, including age, national
origin, and gender. Explain the theory of proxemics to them and ask if they
would allow you to assess the degree of comfort or discomfort when these
different non-verbal communication components are varied. As you talk to them,
vary the personal distance, speech volume, eye contact, touching (if
appropriate based on local cultural norms), body position, and setting in which
the communication occurs. Discuss how each variable positively or negatively
impacts the communication process. Then, summarize how these factors increase
or decrease your ability to actively listen to the other party and why they are
valuable.

If you cannot find three volunteers for this
assignment, watch the following video clip: Cultural Proxemics—Personal Space. Then, provide three key ideas you have gained
from watching the video clip. Include a summary of what you have observed and
learned from this exercise.
Suggest
and explain two other cross-cultural differences in non-verbal communication
from personal experience/readings that could impact the negotiation process
positively or negatively.